If you buy a product through one of our referral links we will earn a commission (without costing you anything).
Prices last updated on .
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2013
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
June 12, 2013
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight
The Pentax K-50 receives a score of 57/100 for its general specifications. This DSLR camera, announced on June 12, 2013, and released in the same year, initially retailed for $599. With dimensions of 130 x 97 x 71mm and a weight of 650g (1.43lbs), the K-50 is moderately sized and portable. However, compared to today’s market, the camera’s specifications may not be as competitive as newer models, but it remains a decent option for those seeking an affordable DSLR.
Pentax K-50 Overview and Optics
The optics of the Pentax K-50 receive a score of 62/100. This camera features 16.28 megapixels and a shooting speed of 6 frames per second, which are decent specifications for an entry-level DSLR. The K-50 utilizes a CMOS sensor with an APS-C size and a DXOMARK score of 79, placing it in the middle of the pack among other cameras in its category. The Prime M processor and Pentax KAF lens mount enhance the camera’s performance and compatibility with various lenses.
Image stabilization is present in the K-50, ensuring clear and steady shots. The camera also offers a standard aspect ratio of 3:2. However, these features might not be enough to make the K-50 stand out in today’s competitive market, as other cameras offer higher resolutions and more advanced features.
The Pentax K-50 optics, while not groundbreaking, provide satisfactory performance for casual photographers. Its score of 62/100 reflects its position as a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and user-friendly camera.
Optics
Pentax K-50
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16.28 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4928 x 3264 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
Sensor Size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
15.7 x 23.7 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps
Lens Mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Pentax KAF
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Prime M
Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
51,200
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
51200
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
1/ 6000 s
Autofocus Points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
11
In-body Stabilization
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder Type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)
Pentax K-50 Video Performance
The Pentax K-50’s video capabilities earn a score of 57 out of 100. The camera’s maximum video resolution is Full HD, with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. It records at a maximum frame rate of 30fps, suitable for capturing smooth motion. Additionally, the camera includes built-in time-lapse functionality.
When comparing the K-50’s video capabilities to current market standards, it falls short. Many modern cameras offer 4K video resolution and higher frame rates, resulting in more detailed and lifelike footage. Despite its limitations, the K-50 remains a viable option for casual videographers or those on a budget.
The Pentax K-50 is not on par with leading cameras in the video department. However, its Full HD resolution, 30fps frame rate, and time-lapse feature still provide decent video performance for entry-level users.
Video
Pentax K-50
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max Video Resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video File Format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4
Pentax K-50 Features and Benefits
The Pentax K-50 receives a feature score of 54 out of 100. The camera has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots. However, it lacks a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities.
Comparing these features to modern cameras, the Pentax K-50 falls short in terms of connectivity and user-friendliness. Many current models offer touchscreens, flip screens, and wireless connectivity for easy sharing and remote control. The absence of these features in the K-50 may deter some potential buyers who value convenience and seamless integration with other devices.
Despite these limitations, the Pentax K-50 still delivers solid performance in terms of image quality and handling. Its features may not be the most advanced or cutting-edge, but it remains a reliable option for those who prioritize image quality and affordability over additional bells and whistles.
Features
Pentax K-50
Built-in Flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External Flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather Sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen Type
LCD
Touch Screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen Size
3"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
921,000 dots
Flip Screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live View
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Pentax K-50 Storage and Battery
The Pentax K-50 receives a storage and battery score of 24/100. This camera has one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. In today’s market, multiple memory card slots are preferred by many photographers for flexibility and backup purposes, so having only one slot is a disadvantage.
The battery life of the K-50 is 410 shots, powered by a D-LI109 battery. This battery life is lower than many modern cameras, which often provide more than 500 shots per charge. The K-50 does not offer USB charging, which is a convenient feature found in some current models.
The storage and battery capabilities of the Pentax K-50 are not as competitive as those in today’s market. With limited memory card options and a shorter battery life, the K-50 falls behind when compared to other cameras in its class.
Storage and Battery
Pentax K-50
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
D-LI109
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.'
23.7 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.'
13 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better'
DSLR
APS-C
3:2
Full HD
3"
